By Sunday 
If there’s one thing NFL fans and front offices both understand, it’s that cornerbacks don’t come cheap—especially not veterans with proven success. But even in a market built on premium prices for defensive backs, the Detroit Lions’ deal with D.J. Reed is starting to feel like an expensive gamble that might not pay off.
A Pricey Bet on the Back End
When Detroit inked Reed to a three-year, $48 million contract this offseason, the logic seemed sound. The Lions needed help in the secondary, especially after their defense sputtered late in the 2024 season. Reed brought leadership, starting experience, and strong production with the New York Jets. On paper, it was a smart fix.
But now, with training camp looming and his $16 million per year deal under the microscope, that “fix” is looking more like an overreach. Not because Reed is a bad player—far from it—but because the math simply isn’t mathing.
The Value Gap
Take Jaire Alexander, for instance. A two-time All-Pro cornerback signed with the Ravens for just $6 million. Yes, he has an injury history, but his upside dwarfs Reed’s resume. When Detroit fans (and likely the front office) saw that number, it had to sting. Comparisons are inevitable, and they aren’t flattering in this case.
Reed ranked 42nd out of 222 qualified cornerbacks in PFF’s 2024 grading—not elite, but solid. Still, that stat line doesn’t scream “top-dollar contract,” especially with younger, cheaper corners like Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. now on the roster.
Age and Expectations
Reed turns 29 this season, which is often a tipping point for cornerbacks. They don’t tend to age gracefully at the position, and Detroit’s commitment is a bet that he can maintain his form—or somehow exceed it—as he approaches 30.
With the Lions clearly aiming for a Super Bowl push, this contract needs to hit. Reed will likely be paired with All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph, and together they’ll anchor a secondary that simply can’t afford to be average again.
Final Whistle
There’s still time for Reed to prove everyone wrong. He’s tough, smart, and brings a ton of experience to a defense that’s been more promise than production. But the pressure’s already mounting—and it’s only June.
Let’s hope for Detroit’s sake that this isn’t the kind of deal they’ll be haunted by when the real season kicks off.